Finance Secretary to host question session in Montrose

Townsfolk in Montrose will have the chance to quiz the Finance Secretary on the Scottish Government’s plans for independence, when he visits the town next week.

Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond has given a commitment that over the next nine months people across Scotland will be able to put their questions directly to him and his cabinet.

Now local people will have the opportunity to discuss the future the Scottish government has set out in detail, following a vote for independence on Thursday, September 18.

John Swinney, Finance Secretary at Holyrood, will host his first individual public discussion at the Park Hotel in Montrose on Wednesday, March 5 between 1 and 2.30 p.m.

He is keen to hear as many views as possible and will answer questions from members of the audience at the session.

Speaking to the Montrose Review ahead of the event, he said: “I am delighted to be hosting this public discussion in Montrose.

“This event is part of a series of Scotland-wide events which will see me and colleagues engage with people across the country about the exciting future we envisage following a vote for independence.

“We’ve already put forward our proposals for Scotland’s future and demonstrated how the powers of independence can be used to build a wealthier and fairer Scotland, but it’s crucial everyone who lives and works in Scotland considers and discusses with others the sort of country they want Scotland to be in the future.

“Taking the referendum conversation out to communities across the country provides an opportunity for us to meet people from a wide range of backgrounds and hear their views on independence, as well as listening to their questions and concerns.

“This is the opportunity of a generation and we want to give as many people as possible across Scotland the opportunity to ask questions and air their views.”

He added: “We want to hear what local people have to say about the type of Scotland they want in the future and I would encourage readers of the Montrose Review to come and meet me today.”

As well as the formal question and answer session, Mr Swinney will be happy to chat informally to audience members over tea and coffee at the end of the event.

Attendance is free but spaces are limited, register for the event on www.scotreferendum.com/events. Doors open at 12.30 p.m.

You can also register by calling 0300 244 2114.

Scotland’s Future Guide to an Independent Scotland can be downloaded at www.scotreferendum.com